The much-anticipated limited voter registration exercise, scheduled to kick off on Tuesday, May 7, has encountered obstacles in five key districts in Ghana.
Reports indicate that not a single individual has been successfully registered in the Ayawaso West Wougon, Ayawaso Central, Korle Klotey, Ayawaso East, and Ayawaso North districts, despite the nationwide rollout. This registration delay appears to be a national issue that could hinder the overall registration process.
The setback is a major blow to the Electoral Commission’s efforts to conduct a seamless and effective registration exercise to enlist approximately 623,000 first-time voters nationwide.
Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Jean Mensa, has stressed the importance of compiling a credible voter register as the 2024 elections approach. She emphasized that transparent elections cannot be achieved without a reliable voter register.
During a press conference in Accra on Monday, May 6, Mensa reaffirmed the EC’s commitment to delivering transparent and credible elections. The 21-day registration exercise targets individuals who have reached 18 years of age since the last registration to be included in the national voter database.
Additionally, the Ghana Education Service has granted Senior High/Technical School students who are 18 years and older four days’ leave to participate in the registration exercise.
As the registration process continues, all stakeholders are urged to work together to ensure a smooth and successful voter registration exercise. By Noble Crosby Annan.
